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Manchester City edged past Newcastle United 2–1 at the Etihad Stadium in a thrilling Premier League clash on Saturday.
City arrived at kick-off chasing Arsenal in the title race, knowing a win would reduce the gap at the summit to just two points.While Newcastle came into the match looking to build on a mixed season and extend their push into the top half of the table.
According to Sky Sports, the hosts started strongly, asserting early control and moving the ball with purpose as Pep Guardiola’s side looked to exploit space down both flanks against a disciplined Newcastle defence.
City’s breakthrough came in the 14th minute, when O’Reilly unleashed a superb strike from distance after a slick attacking move.
Read more: Tottenham and Manchester City draw 2–2 in London Premier League thriller
Newcastle responded almost immediately, eight minutes later, Lewis Hall’s powerful effort took a deflection and flew past Gianluigi Donnarumma to level the score and stun the hosts, giving Eddie Howe’s men belief in an upset.
In the 27th minute, O’Reilly leapt highest to head home from an Erling Haaland cross, handing City control once more and sparking chants around the stadium.
The second half saw Newcastle press for a second equaliser and pepper City’s goal with pressure, but they struggled to convert chances into clear openings as City defended resolutely and managed the tempo of the game.
Despite some nervy moments late on, including a strong save from Donnarumma to deny Harvey Barnes in stoppage time, City held on to secure the crucial win and limit the damage in the heated title battle.
The victory cuts Arsenal’s lead at the top to just two points, increasing the pressure on the league leaders with several key fixtures looming.
Contributed by Emmanuel Lungu
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